Setting the record straight: Faces of CHANGE not connected to OSPCA

TORONTO, May 20 /CNW/ - The Faces of CHANGE team, running for election to the Toronto Humane Society (THS) board, today reaffirms that it has no connections to the Ontario Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA).

"Members have asked us where we stand on euthanasia and the OSPCA," said Marcie Laking, spokesperson and candidate for Faces of CHANGE. "We would like to set the record straight and clear up any misconceptions."

Are you connected to the OSPCA?

NO. Faces of CHANGE isn't affiliated, associated, or backed by the OSPCA.

In fact, we issued a press release (www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/May2010/11/c2586.html) opposing the mass euthanizations at the OSPCA's Newmarket shelter.

Faces of CHANGE (www.reformths.com) is an independent group of members, donors and volunteers. We have extensive animal welfare (http://reformths.com/plan/welfare.html) experience at the THS and with rescue groups, and professional skills (http://reformths.com/plan/governance.html) in veterinary medicine, business, finance, law, communications and fundraising.

What's your euthanasia policy?

We believe that each animal deserves every chance to succeed. We do NOT believe in euthanasia as a method of population control.

Each animal will be assessed by a team of experts, including veterinarians and behaviour specialists. If an animal presents an issue that can be treated through behavioural modification or medical intervention, we will give that animal every chance to succeed. However, if the animal is suffering and is not treatable, or if the animal is a significant public safety risk, it will be humanely euthanized.

"We understand how important issues like euthanasia are to the members," said Laking. "We urge everyone to read the euthanasia policies of each slate. We strongly believe that ours is better researched, more comprehensive, and simply better for the animals."

Every vote counts

"We believe the Toronto Humane Society can be a leader in animal welfare," said Laking. "Faces of CHANGE has a powerful platform that is rooted in what is best for the animals. The animals must always come first."

The Faces of CHANGE team is more than just 15 candidates (http://reformths.com/team/candidates.html) with a few ideas. They have a strong supporting team (http://reformths.com/team/Supporters.html), a robust platform and plan (http://reformths.com/plan/index.html), and committees (http://reformths.com/team/Committees.html) ready to do whatever it takes to help Toronto's vulnerable animals.

Faces of CHANGE wants THS members to vote for them. But they also encourage everyone to do more than just cast a ballot. Members can get informed, get involved and make a difference. Visit www.reformths.com to learn how.

For further information: Marcie Laking, [phone]; Or visit www.reformths.com